Independent Sector Statement on House FY 2018 Budget

July 19, 2017

By Independent Sector

Share with a colleague!

(WASHINGTON, July 19, 2017) — The following is a statement by Daniel J. Cardinali, president and CEO, Independent Sector:

“Independent Sector, the leading voice of the charitable community in the United States, believes the Fiscal Year 2018 budget released yesterday by House Republicans withdraws critical support for the nation’s most vulnerable populations.

During today’s House Budget Committee mark-up of the FY 2018 budget resolution, Chairman Diane Black (R-TN) said the federal government has ‘encroached on the responsibilities of states, local governments, local communities, families and charitable organizations. Returning power back to the states and other components of civil society will allow them to provide services more efficiently and effectively.’

The proposed budget is at odds with our Statement of Beliefs Regarding Federal Tax and Spending Policies. We believe in the power of a strong partnership between government and the charitable sector. Although government cannot solve problems alone, we must be clear that the charitable sector is not a substitute for government. Government plays a unique and indispensable role in providing for our communities, especially the most vulnerable, at a scale that cannot be replicated by civil society.

The philanthropic and charitable community cannot fill the gap in resources and services created by this budget. The proposed reforms and cuts to non-defense spending would negatively affect charitable organizations’ capacity to pursue our missions as well as the communities and individuals we serve. We believe it is possible to create better fiscal policy that does not threaten to increase poverty or widen inequality.

As tax and spending debates continue, we urge policymakers to work toward fiscal policies that strengthen our communities and improve lives for all Americans.”

###

Independent Sector is the only national membership organization that brings together a diverse set of nonprofits, foundations, and corporations to advance the common good. Learn more at independentsector.org.